Summary
The Biden administration proposed requiring Medicare and Medicaid to cover weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy, reclassifying obesity as a chronic disease to expand access for millions.
This would reduce out-of-pocket costs, but federal spending could rise by $36 billion over a decade.
Critics, like Sen. Bernie Sanders, warn high drug prices could strain the system, while experts argue reduced obesity-related complications may lower long-term healthcare costs.
The plan faces a 60-day comment period, leaving its implementation uncertain under the incoming Trump administration.
It’s so much easier maintaining than it is dieting for weight loss. Don’t let the possible weight gain afterwards deter you from trying it out if you think it may be useful. You just feel so much better with all the excess weight off and you’ll find it’s a bit easier to be motivated for change.